Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1437729
CONSIDER CONTEXT 2021 may have brought extra stressors such as COVID-19, losses or other challenges. You may be simply mustering the muscle to do the next right thing. If that's you, hold hope! This too shall pass. Take time to thank yourself for every positive choice, every practical step and every precious new day. Another reality? Positive things can be stressful, too, such as a new baby, a new relationship or a new job. It's OK to acknowledge your experiences and your feelings. The bottom line: Consider what is realistic for you at this time. SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS No one's life is a Hallmark movie. Media portrayals of gorgeously decorated homes hide the army of extra workers who toiled untold hours preparing the scenes and perfectly presented people you see. Also, remember holidays don't have to be perfect or just like last year to be meaningful. As life changes, traditions and rituals can change. Choose a few to continue. Be open to creating new ones. Think, "What do I need to do — and not do — to have the most personally peaceful, pleasant holiday possible this year?" It might help to make a written list to guide your holiday choices. STICK TO THE BUDGET Before shopping for gifts or food, decide how much you can spend without adding stress. Then, stick to your budget. Remember that a mountain of debt-ridden gifts won't buy happiness. Instead, write a note telling a person what they mean to you or the good qualities you see in them. Donate to a charity in their honor. Give homemade gifts. Start a gift exchange. MAKE TASKS TIME EFFICIENT Look for time-efficient ways to accomplish things you've chosen to make part of your holiday. Set aside specific times for holiday activities such as shopping, baking and connecting with friends. Plan menus. Choose to purchase foods or prepare dishes that require less standing over the stove. Make shopping lists to prevent last-minute scrambling for forgotten things. Shop online. Use gift bags. Work together with a partner, friends or family to decorate, cook, prepare gifts and clean up. SAY NO Setting limits is important to self-care and is key to avoid being overwhelmed or feeling resentful. People who truly care for you will understand that you can't do everything! Choose wisely. Refuse SHANNON SAYS HELP FOR THE HOLIDAYS BY DR. SHANNON TERRELL GORDON A merican holidays hold a dizzying array of delights and demands. Sometimes, as a result, stress or sadness can be unwelcome guests. These tips can help your holiday season be its best. politely, saying, "Thank you for thinking of me; however, I can't do that this year." SET ASIDE DIFFERENCES Accept family and others as they are. Set aside grievances until you find a more appropriate time to seek resolution. Extend grace and understanding if others get upset should challenges arise. Chances are they are working to combat holiday stress or sadness, too. MAINTAIN HEALTHY HABITS Avoid the stress that follows overindulgence. Have a healthy snack before a holiday meal to make it less likely you overeat. Restrict tobacco, alcohol or drug intake. Limit media exposure to protect your inner life. Get adequate sleep and exercise daily. Practice deep breathing, meditation, prayer or yoga to clear your mind and restore calm. Take at least 15 minutes alone each day to do an activity you enjoy. For example: Take a walk focused on nature, listen to soothing music, do a craft, play an instrument or read a book. SEEK AND PROVIDE SUPPORT If you're lonely or stressed, actively choose to engage in community, spiritual or other social events or groups. Many provide online options that offer support and companionship. Macon Recovers, at 595 Wimbish Road, is a wonderful, local resource! Talk to a caring person, friend or family member. If you can't visit face-to- face, reach out via text, phone or video chat. Doing something to help others will amp up your gratitude, lift your spirits and build friendships. GET PROFESSIONAL HELP Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself challenged by sleep or physical complaints. You may feel persistently sad, anxious, irritable or hopeless. If so, please quickly talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. There is hope and help available. You are worth it! Dr. Shannon Terrell Gordon leads Macon's River Edge Behavioral Health and River Edge Foundation. Shannon is a researcher, author, speaker and teacher to help each person live his or her best life and to help leaders make the most meaningful impact possible. Follow her on Instagram with #drshannonsays. Contact her at sgordon@river-edge.org. 34 maconmagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2022